Homecoming is one of the biggest events of the school year. It starts off with a Spirit Week that’s followed up with a pep rally, sporting event (usually football), and even a dance. Now, if your school has a dance, you may be curious about what you should wear. This is because homecoming dances are less formal than prom and other school dances.
So, are homecoming dresses long or short? The short answer is that they can be both. However, the length of your dress depends on your preferences. Thankfully, this guide covers everything you need to know to make an educated decision.
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ToggleWhat Is Homecoming?
Homecoming is one of the most important events of the year for high schools, colleges, and some other schools. This is because homecoming includes a Spirit Week that culminates in a sporting event, parade, and sometimes even a dance. Typically, the purpose of homecoming is to drive school spirit, so each day of Spirit Week tends to include something unique.
Some examples include dressing in costumes, wearing school colors, and much more. Other events may also be sprinkled in, and the week usually ends with a pep rally in the school’s gym.
Do You Need to Wear a Dress to Homecoming?
Whether or not you need to wear a dress to homecoming depends on the specific part of homecoming that you’re referring to. For example, you probably shouldn’t wear a dress on a day that’s all about school spirit or a specific costume.
The pep rally also doesn’t require a dress, and you may be chilly if you wear a dress to a football game in October. That said, the homecoming dance, if your school has one, is something you’ll want to wear a dress to. Thankfully, it’s not as formal as the prom of the Senior Formal, so you should be able to wear a cocktail-style dress or something similar.
Are Homecoming Dresses Long or Short?
Now that we’ve established you should only be wearing a homecoming dress to the homecoming dance, we can dive into the nitty-gritty of what you should wear. The first question you’re probably asking yourself is, “Are homecoming dresses long or short?” Unfortunately, the short answer is that it’s complicated.
The good news is that you can go with long or short homecoming dresses because it depends on the style that you’re after. Learn more about long and short homecoming dresses below.
Long Homecoming Dresses
Homecoming dresses can be long dresses. If your school has a dance that’s on the more formal side, long homecoming dresses are available in a wide variety of colors and styles. Now, if you’re trying to be the school’s Homecoming Queen, you may want to go over the top and really add some glamour with a dazzling black floor length dress.
On the other hand, if you’re just looking to have a little fun with it, you can choose a neon dress or a longer cocktail dress. For the best results, pair your long homecoming dresses with heels, a great statement bag, and jewelry to stand out.
Short Homecoming Dresses
Another option is a short homecoming dress. These are dresses that are similar to cocktail dresses, so they’re usually above the knee or right around it. While slightly less formal than a long homecoming dress, most homecoming dances aren’t formal compared to prom.

Therefore, this is one of the school dances where you can get away with a more informal, short, cocktail dress. When it comes to short homecoming dresses, it’s a good idea to pair them with heels, cute sandals, and a statement bag. A short black homecoming dress can be paired with almost anything. Of course, jewelry is also crucial, so don’t forget to add some flair to your outfit.
Are Homecoming Dresses Long or Short? Our Final Thoughts
So, are Homecoming dresses long or short? Ultimately, it depends on your preferences. Want to go with a more glamorous look? Consider a longer homecoming dress. On the other hand, if you prefer something more subtle, it’s a good idea to go with a short homecoming dress, like a cocktail-style dress.
Regardless of the dress that you’re after, Sherri Hill carries a wide variety of black homecoming dresses, neon homecoming dresses, and plenty of long and short styles.



